A minor girl was critically injured after her throat was allegedly slit by a youth who later attempted suicide by consuming poison in Mayabarha village under Bolangir Sadar police limits.
The girl, found in a bloodied state, was rushed to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital in Bolangir and later shifted to Burla due to the severity of her condition.
Preliminary police investigation revealed that the accused, identified as Haldhar Bariha (25) from Pandripani village under Patnagarh police limits, is the maternal cousin of the victim. Authorities suspect a romantic relationship between the two, which may have led to the violent attack.
Following the assault, Haldhar reportedly consumed poison in an attempt to end his life. He was initially taken to Patnagarh Hospital and later transferred to Bhima Bhoi Medical College for advanced treatment. Police have launched a detailed investigation and are interrogating individuals connected to the case.